Gaines announces 2018 campaign for District 117

ATHENS, GA -- Athens Republican Houston Gaines announced today that he will run for the House District 117 seat this year and named his leadership committee with representation from Clarke, Oconee, Barrow and Jackson counties.

“This district wants and deserves conservative leadership at the state Capitol – and that’s not what it’s getting now,” said Gaines. "I’m going to provide our district a conservative alternative to the out-of-touch representation we have today."

“I have lived in this district my entire life and had the privilege of graduating from the university in my hometown. My family’s roots run deep here. Just as my grandfather served this community as a judge, I want to work on behalf of my neighbors in this district to bring high-paying jobs to this region, invest in education to bolster our workforce and prepare students for the careers of tomorrow and protect the high quality of life we enjoy here."

The race will present a rematch between Gaines and Democrat State Rep. Deborah Gonzalez, who won the seat by a narrow 450-vote margin in a special election last year to fill the unexpired term of Regina Quick.

"Special elections are – as evidenced by their name – unique,” Gaines said. "The dynamics in 2018 will be inherently different, as will our campaign. That’s why we are announcing today, in early February, almost 9 months from Election Day. I’m ready to get to work speaking directly to every voter in this district to hear what issues are most important to them, let them know my vision for our state, and to provide a clear contrast with my opponent."

Rep. Gonzalez will remain in the legislative session through late March.

"Deborah Gonzalez has made it clear that she is committed to the far-left ideologies that mirror the most radical wing of the Democrat Party," said Joan Rhoden, President of the Conservative Republican Women of Northeast Georgia. "Those aren’t the values of District 117, and those left-wing policies do not represent the heart of District 117. We have a choice in Houston Gaines. Houston will give us a voice and will provide a refreshing option from our current liberal activist legislator. While Deborah Gonzalez spends her time putting out inflammatory and divisive statements attacking law enforcement agencies and advocating for sanctuary cities, Houston will take a strong stand to support law enforcement and the policies that help keep our communities safe."

Gaines also announced the following as the leadership committee for his House campaign: